Pernell Roberts, the iconic actor who embodied Adam Cartwright on the beloved series Bonanza, was a man of striking contrasts. While he exuded charm and confidence, beneath that polished exterior lay a fierce conviction that often put him at odds with his Hollywood peers. Today, we delve into the five stars he reportedly couldn’t stand, revealing the surprising stories behind each feud.
Born on May 18, 1928, in Waycross, Georgia, Roberts was the only child of a hardworking father and a nurturing mother. From a young age, he gravitated toward music and performance rather than the mischief typical of childhood. After high school, he briefly pursued engineering at Georgia Tech but soon realized his true passion lay in the arts.
Following a stint in the Marine Corps, where he played in the band, he returned to his artistic roots, enrolling at the University of Maryland and immersing himself in theater.
By the early 1950s, Roberts had made his way to New York City, where he honed his craft at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. His dedication paid off in 1952 with his first stage role in The Man Who Came to Dinner, marking the beginning of a career that would be defined by his refusal to conform to Hollywood’s expectations.
Roberts quickly gained recognition for his performances in classic plays and films, eventually landing the role of Adam Cartwright in 1959. Bonanza became a television phenomenon, but Roberts felt a growing disconnect with the character and the show’s direction. Frustrated by what he perceived as superficial writing, he made the bold decision to leave the series in 1965, choosing artistic integrity over fame.
Despite his departure from Bonanza, Roberts continued to act, eventually finding success in Trapper John, M.D. However, his strong opinions about his colleagues often led to tensions, particularly with five notable stars.
First on the list is Michael Landon. Initially, Roberts and Landon shared a cordial relationship, but as Landon’s star rose, so did the friction. Roberts reportedly viewed Landon as self-serving, especially when he began rewriting scripts to elevate his character, Little Joe.
Their relationship soured, culminating in Roberts’ sharp criticism of Landon’s perceived lack of depth.
Next is Dan Blocker, who played Hoss Cartwright. Their friendship deteriorated not from anger, but disappointment. Blocker’s reluctance to support Roberts during conflicts with the network left Roberts feeling isolated.
He believed Blocker chose comfort over integrity, leading to a painful rift between the two once-close actors.
Chuck Connors, known for his role in The Rifleman, ignited another feud. Their clash occurred at a charity event where Connors’ dismissive behavior toward crew members irked Roberts. Their confrontation backstage was heated, with Roberts branding Connors as a fraud obsessed with fame, while Connors retaliated by mocking Roberts’ career choices.
The tension with Lorne Greene, who played Ben Cartwright, was perhaps the most personal. Roberts felt stifled by Greene’s adherence to the show’s formula, which he believed lacked the depth and complexity he sought in storytelling. Their artistic differences turned into a cold war on set, ultimately leading Roberts to walk away from the show that had made him famous.
Lastly, there was James Drury, whose conservative views clashed with Roberts’ progressive ideals. Their ideological differences became apparent during a televised panel, where Roberts criticized the industry for avoiding serious issues, while Drury defended the status quo. Their refusal to shake hands after the event signified a deep-seated animosity.
Throughout his life, Roberts was a man of conviction, often sacrificing personal relationships for his principles. His tumultuous personal life mirrored his professional struggles, as he navigated four marriages and the tragic loss of his only son, Jonathan. Despite these challenges, he found solace in his final years with his fourth wife, embracing a quieter life away from Hollywood’s spotlight.
Pernell Roberts passed away on January 24, 2010, leaving behind a legacy that transcended his roles. He was a trailblazer who prioritized authenticity over fame, challenging the norms of his industry. As we reflect on his life, one question remains: what would he think of today’s Hollywood landscape?
